New automated import certificate system

The new Import Certificate online system from Wine Australia is helping streamline the process for Australian wine exporters requesting import certificates for China and improving certificate delivery times. 

General Manager Regulatory Services Steve Guy said the system simplifies the process for requesting China–Australia Free Trade Agreement (ChAFTA) Certificates of Origin and China Certificates of Free Sale and has already proven to be a popular tool for the Australian wine sector. 

‘In our first couple of weeks rolling out the new system to our exporters, we’ve seen more than half of all certificate requests lodged through the automated service', he said. 

‘The system has helped to improve the efficiency of the process and as a result Wine Australia’s turnaround times have been reduced. Requests lodged through the new system are guaranteed same day service – providing submissions are received before 2pm (SA time) – which helps to alleviate some of the pressure for our exporters.’ 

Currently, the automated Import Certificate system is set up to process ChAFTA Certificates of Origin and China Certificate of Free Sale. However, further certificates may be added for other markets in the future. 

Australian wine exports to the Chinese mainland increased 50 per cent to $419 million in the 12 months to the end of June 2016.